Growth and Root Development of Different Corn (Zea mays) Varieties Fertilized with Different Nitrogen Fertilizers Grown in Alkaline Soils

This study aims to explore the effects of nitrogen-based fertilizers influencing corn’s performance in alkaline soils, ultimately contributing to improved practices for corn cultivation in these challenging environments.  The integration of modern farming practices, such as improved seed varieties and sustainable agricultural methods, has aimed to boost productivity and support the livelihoods of local farmers. By examining the growth response and intricate relationships between different nitrogen fertilizers and root development, this study seeks to identify key factors that determine the adaptability and resilience of two varieties of corn in alkaline environment. This research was conducted at Cebu Technological University-Barili Campus experimental area, Barili, Cebu, Philippines. The research used a split-block design to examine how each fertilizer influenced growth and root development across the two corn varieties.  The study specifically evaluated the effects of four nitrogen fertilizers: diammonium phosphate (18-46-0), urea (46-0-0), ammonium phosphate (16-20-0), and ammonium sulfate (21-0-0) on plant height, root length, root diameter, and root dry mass. This research found that urea and ammonium sulfate were most effective, with urea enhancing plant height, especially in sweetcorn with 58 cm at 30 DAP and 101.20 cm at 60 DAP, and ammonium sulfate applied to sweetcorn promoting superior root development with 51.93 cm root length and 5.04 mm root diameter by temporarily acidifying the soil with 7.76 soil pH. The results highlight the importance of tailored fertilizer strategies, identifying urea and ammonium sulfate as optimal for improving corn yields in alkaline soils. Among the fertilizers tested, urea and ammonium sulfate proved to be the most effective in enhancing both plant height and root length, especially for the sweetcorn variety.